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Republicans Push Bill to Keep Transgender People from Changing Restrooms

Several Republican state lawmakers are renewing their push to define who can use which bathrooms in Minnesota schools and workplaces.

They're supporting legislation that would require transgender people to use restrooms, locker rooms and dressing rooms that match the sex on their birth certificate. It would also prevent employers from deviating from the rules.

Opponents, including Gov. Mark Dayton, say the proposal is discriminatory. Monica Meyer, executive director of the group Outfront Minnesota, said the bill is trying to solve a safety problem that doesn't exist. Meyer said the proposal would also weaken the state's strong anti-discrimination laws.

"This legislation is about fear-mongering and it creates a hostile climate for transgender people, and it's wrong. It's just plain wrong," she said. "This bill is really about discrimination, plain and simple discrimination."